Polaroid Now Plus Gen 2 Review

The Polaroid Now Plus Gen 2 is an instant camera that tries to bridge the gap between point-and-shoot simplicity and creative control. It is a refreshed version of the Now Plus, with the same retro design but updated internals. Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback, and key decision factors to give you an honest look at what this camera offers and who should buy it.

Design and Build Quality

The camera has a chunky, rounded body that feels solid in the hands. The plastic shell is textured to prevent slips, and the shutter button has a satisfying click. The lens barrel protrudes slightly, giving it a classic instant camera silhouette. The controls are minimal: a shutter button, a viewfinder, and a few buttons for power and flash. The built-in battery is charged via USB-C, which is convenient, but it is not user-replaceable. That means when the battery eventually dies, you cannot swap it out yourself. For most users, that is a long way off, but it is worth noting.

Key Features and Specifications

The Now Plus Gen 2 uses Polaroid i-Type film, which is the company's standard film without a battery. The camera has a fixed focus lens with two focal lengths: one for standard shots and a close-up lens that you can switch to for subjects 35 to 50 cm away. It also has a self-timer and a double exposure mode, both of which are activated via buttons on the top. The app, available for iOS and Android, adds manual exposure control, a remote trigger, and creative modes like light painting and noise trigger. The camera's automatic exposure is generally reliable, but you can override it with the app for more control.

Real-World Performance and Image Quality

In terms of image quality, the Now Plus Gen 2 produces the classic Polaroid look: soft focus, muted colors, and a vintage vibe. It is not sharp by any means, and exposure can be inconsistent, especially in low light. The built-in flash helps, but it can sometimes overexpose close subjects. The double exposure mode is fun to experiment with, but it takes practice to get good results. The close-up lens is a nice addition, but it requires you to be very close to the subject, and the viewfinder does not show exactly what the lens sees, so there is a learning curve. Overall, the image quality is charming but not technically impressive. If you want crisp, clear prints, this is not the camera for you.

Handling and Ergonomics

The camera is comfortable to hold, with a slight grip on the right side. The viewfinder is small and not very accurate, so you often get more in the frame than you intended. That is a common complaint among users. The buttons are easy to reach, and the flash toggle is straightforward. The camera is not pocketable, but it comes with a wrist strap for carrying. The app connection is a bit finicky; some users report difficulty pairing or staying connected. But once connected, the remote trigger and manual controls work well.

Battery and Storage

The built-in battery is rated for about 15 packs of film, which is roughly 120 shots. That is decent for an instant camera. Charging takes about two hours via USB-C. There is no memory card; all images are on the film itself. You cannot preview or delete photos, so every shot counts. That is part of the analog charm, but it also means wasted film if you make a mistake.

Value for Money

The Polaroid Now Plus Gen 2 is priced higher than the standard Now, but it offers more creative features. However, the ongoing cost of film is a major factor. Each pack of i-Type film costs about $17 for 8 shots, which works out to over $2 per photo. That adds up quickly, especially if you are experimenting. For casual users, the cost may be prohibitive. But for enthusiasts who value the creative process, the investment is justified.

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Manual control, double exposure, self-timer, app connectivity, solid build.
• Cons: Expensive film, soft image quality, non-replaceable battery, inaccurate viewfinder.

Comparison with Alternatives

Compared to the Polaroid Now, the Now Plus Gen 2 adds a close-up lens and app features, but the Now is simpler and cheaper. The Polaroid OneStep+ is similar but has a different design and no close-up lens. If you want a more affordable instant camera with cheaper film, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 is a great choice, but it produces smaller prints and has no manual controls. The choice depends on your priorities: creative control versus cost and convenience.

Common Buyer Complaints

Many users complain about the viewfinder accuracy, saying that photos often include extra elements at the edges. Others mention that the app connection can be unreliable, especially on older phones. Some users are disappointed with the image sharpness, but that is inherent to Polaroid film. A few have reported that the close-up lens is difficult to use because the viewfinder does not correct for the different focal length. Overall, these are minor issues for most buyers.

Final Verdict

The Polaroid Now Plus Gen 2 is a fun and creative instant camera for those who enjoy the analog process. It is not for everyone, but if you are willing to embrace its quirks and invest in film, it can be a rewarding tool. Check the current price on Amazon to see if it fits your budget.